That's right, folks!  To add another positive bit of news to Gainesville, FL's lengthy catalog, we have made the list of the top 7 most recession proof cities to retire in America according to this article on MSN money.

The article cites the University of Florida with being the dynamic factor that keeps our economy thriving and relatively recession proof.  And from my point of view, even with all of the negative Nancy's in the media raining on our real estate parade, our real estate prices have truly not taken dramatic hits, more like modest dings.  The article notes a small 1% decrease in the average sales prices of homes (of around $211,000) in 2007 from 2006

Just another reason why buyers should begin to realize that NOW is the time to buy real estate in Gainesville!! These reasons keep stacking up.  I've written other articles referencing the fact that Gainesville was voted #1 city in the nation to live by Cities Ranked and Rated in 2007, and a recent article about having one of the lowest unemployment rates in Florida.  By the time buyers get up the courage to jump off the fence, prices will start going back up, and within the 5 years prior to 2007, Gainesville real estate was appreciating at around 19% on average.  Get it while it lasts, guys!

Angela Elliott is a licensed Florida REALTOR® with Century 21 Classic Properties in Gainesville, FL. Please visit my profile for more about me and browse my Gainesville, FL real estate website for additional Alachua County information and listings. Your phone calls are always welcome at (352) 256-7038 as are your e-mails to angela.elliott1@century21.com.  A portion of all my closed sales will be donated to the Alachua Co. Humane Society (View my mission statement).